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Your editor-approved guide to long weekend trips with wow-factor…
We already know that there’s a UAE long weekend on the way. And although it’s yet to be confirmed whether Eid Al Fitr will be a four- or five-day public holiday in the UAE, we do know it’s the perfect opportunity to jet off for a fabulous break.
If you’re unsure how to spend the Eid holiday, we’ve got some wanderlust-inducing travel inspo that will take you from golden deserts to sparkling private islands.
Here are 6 travel ideas for a dreamy Eid Al Fitr escape.
Next-level family fun in the Maldives
Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours 30 minutes
The stay: In this idyllic archipelago you’ll find all the big-hitting hospitality brands that have made a name for themselves around the world. But for the ultimate experiential island resort with wow factor, retreat back to one of the Maldives’ first brands, Soneva. Their duo of Maldivian resorts – Soneva Jani and Soneva Fushi both promise fabulous family fun this Eid Al Fitr. When you book a minimum three nights you’ll get a fourth night complimentary, or book five nights and stay for seven at no extra cost. While on island time, children enjoy full-board dining and experiences for all ages range from snorkelling with manta rays, to dolphin spotting, films under the stars at the jungle cinema and picnics on private sandbanks.
Rates: From AED6,465
soneva.com
From desert to ocean at the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia
Flight time from Dubai: 3 hours 30 minutes
The stay: One of the world’s newest and most exciting tourism destinations, The Red Sea is a megaproject being brought to life on Saudi Arabia’s northwest coast. So far half a dozen idyllic resorts have opened, divided between the flame-hued desert and the impossibly turquoise ocean, and whether you’re looking to adventure or unwind, there are experiences for all travelling styles. Enjoy bedouin-inspired wellness and desert tranquillity at Six Senses Southern Dunes, or check in to one of the world’s only Ritz-Carlton Reserve’s at Nujuma, a private island that promises a deep connection to local history. Or there’s the duo of new so-Instagrammable-they-could-be-AI resorts – Desert Rock and Shebara, each a feat of architecture and hospitality.
Rates: From AED4,000
visitredsea.com
Remote wilderness in Rajasthan, India
Flight time from Dubai: 3 hours to Delhi, 1 hour connecting to Jodphur
The stay: Trade soaring city skyscrapers for stretching wilderness at SUJAN JAWAI, a breathtaking retreat backdropped by unspoiled natural beauty. Just 10 luxurious tents make up this sumptuous eco camp, where responsible luxury and sustainability come together to create a magical destination. Spend unforgettable days on wilderness adventures and tracking leopards, wake up to breakfasts in the bush, enjoy sunset yoga outdoors and dine on local flavours underthe starry night’s sky.
Rates: From AED6,210.
relaischateaux.com
Coastal culture in Athens, Greece
Flight time from Dubai: 5 hours 10 minutes
The stay: The alluring Athenian Riviera has been having a revival, and it’s crown jewel is One&Only Aesthesis. A perfect blend of beach bliss and cultural immersion, guests can check-in to villas and bungalows reminiscent of sun-drenched days on the Greek Riviera in the 1960s. While it might not be balmy tan-topping weather, visiting the Grecian capital during shoulder season comes with the opportunity to enjoy bespoke tours without the crowds to Athens most iconic sites, or luxury sailing trips that take you along the craggy coastline.
Rates: From AED2,723
oneandonlyresorts.com
A seaside escape in Sri Lanka
Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours 30 minutes
The stay: Sri Lanka is a popular travel destination for UAE residents, with its vast and varied topography providing the perfect backdrop for trips for friends, families and couples. Among its grand dames, Cape Weligama sits pretty on the palm tree-fringed shores of the South coast, and envelopes guests in oceanic-inspired activities, gourmet cuisine, and local culture. Check in to one of the clifftop villas, soak up the sun from the crescent-shaped infinity pool, and accept the call of the wild with whale watching and crocodile river cruises.
Rates: From AED3,560
relaischateaux.com
A rejuvenating wellness break in the Seychelles
Flight time from Dubai: 4 hours 30 minutes
The stay: Where the verdant jungle meets the pearly white beach sits Cheval Blanc Seychelles. A luxurious escape where natural beauty and thoughtful service perfectly pair, this resort was designed as the ultimate destination for total relaxation. Check in to one of the serene hillside or beachfront villas, and enjoy days spent immersed in nature. See the island from the skies in a private helicopter tour, take to the ocean for a romantic boat trip, or simply enjoy the spoils of the resort with pampering spa treatments tailored for complete mind, body and soul rejuvenation.
Rates: From AED11,570
chevalblanc.com
Images: Supplied
